Johnny "Jack" Dwain Shew

Johnny “Jack” Dwain Shew, 92, of Vilas, passed away peacefully at his home on August 19, 2026.

Jack was born on July 5, 1934, to Wade and Wilma Greene Shew, in the Zack’s Fork community of Caldwell County. He was the oldest brother of Pete, Cecil, and Faye.

On January 16, 1954, Jack married his soulmate, Marion “Ruth” Shew, in Boone. Together they shared 3 beautiful children, Karen, Keith, and Kerry, as well as 72 years of devoted marriage. Jack told everyone he met that he had found his soulmate when he was 16 years old. “It’s been Jack and Ruth ever since,” he would often say.

Jack served in the Korean war in the 3rd Infantry Division of the United States Army, and spoke fondly of his time in the service.

Jack was also an accoladed and passionate musician. His banjo, a Gibson Mastertone, was his pride and joy. Jack was a fixture in the bluegrass community of the high country, and enjoyed making music with his friends and loved ones, including his son and fellow musician, Keith.

Jack is preceded in death by his siblings Pete and Faye, as well his son Keith. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his beloved family members again.

Jack leaves behind his devoted wife, Ruth, as well as children Karen Jones, her husband Ben, son Kerry, his wife Kristy, and special daughter in law Sharon.

Jack was also the proud grandparent of 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He enjoyed a special relationship with granddaughters Emma and Ella.

Jack leaves behind a legacy of humor, joy, and devotion to the Lord, who he gave his life to at a young age. He was a longtime member of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church in Vilas, and spoke often of his faith and his devout belief in Jesus Christ.

Funeral services for Jack Shew will be conducted Saturday morning, Aug. 22nd at 11:00 at Mount Lebanon Baptist Church officiated by Pastor Jason Cornett and Finley Hodges. The family will receive friends Saturday morning from 10:00 until 11:00 at the church prior to services. Military Honors provided by the American Legion Post 130 will follow services at Mount Lebanon Baptist Church. Graveside services will follow in the Danner Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Mount Lebanon Baptist Church Land Fund in care of James Hayes, 831 Baird’s Creek Rd, Vilas, NC 28692.

While his family feels his loss and misses him deeply, they take great comfort in knowing that Jack is with his Savior.

Online condolences may be made to www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Shew family.

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